Razzaq, 58, had been in hospital for over a month as he was seeking treatment for a liver-related ailment. His death is believed to have arisen out of complications in his condition.

Razzaq's film career began in the late 1980s, when he started work as an assistant director on the film Dhwani. As a scriptwriter his notable films include Kanakinavu, Ghazal, Perumazhakalam, Aayirathil Oruvan and Thalolam. Kanakinavu went on to win a National Award.

This year, Razzaq had turned to direction with Moonnaam Naal Njaayarazhcha, a film that took an in-depth look at religious conversions.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan was among those who offered their condolences at Razaq's passing: "Razaq's demise is a a big loss for the Malayalam film industry," Vijayan said.

Incidentally, Razaq's younger brother TA Shahid was also a noted scriptwriter. He passed away in 2013.